Added: December 31, 2020
The end of the year meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday
December 30, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 6:03 P.M.
The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic.
Present were Board Members: Brian Carl, Carol Muth, JR Quackenbush and Marianne Romito. Public present was Luba Wyznyckyj, Michael Ryan from the Mountain Eagle Newspaper, Barbara Schobel and Jim Franz. Also present was the Town Clerk.
Absent was the Highway Superintendent.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #19 of 2020. SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN THE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT.
“WHEREAS, all funds must be in place at the end of the fiscal year, in order that the Appropriation Accounts be balanced, the following transfers should be made:
Highway Fund
Increase:
DA3501 – State Aid – Chips 10,488.49
From:
DA51104 – General Repairs CE (61,643.12)
DA51301 – Machinery PS (26,813.60)
DA51302 – Machinery EQ (4,427.10) (103,372.31)
To:
DA51122 – Permanent Improvements EQ 48,832.04
DA51421 – Snow Removal PS 21,441.92
DA90608 – Medical Insurance (Town Share) 21,543.48
DA51101 – General Repairs PS 11,554.87 103,372.31
NOW THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the budget be amended accordingly”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #20 of 2020. SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN THE GENERAL FUND AND WITHIN THE HIGHWAY FUND.
“WHEREAS, all funds must be in balance at the end of the fiscal year, in order that the
Appropriation account be balanced the following transfers should be made:
From:
A1410.4 – Town Clerk/ Tax Collector CE (1,000.00)
A1670.4 – Central Print/ Mail (1,100.00)
A1355.2 – Assessor EQ (1,500.00)
A3310.4 – Traffic Control CE (1,000.00)
A1410.4 – Attorney CE (484.23)
(5,084.27)
To:
A1355.1 – Assessors PS – Other 0.02
A1410.1 – Town Clerk/ Tax Collector PS 0.04
A1355.4 – Assessors CE 17.11
A1320.4 – Indep. Auditing & Accounting 506.53
A1430.1 – Personnel PS 670.86
A3620.1 – Saftey Inspection PS – Other 1,149.17
A3010.4 – Public Safety CE 2,640.50
A8020.12 – Planning – Secretary 0.04
A8020.1 – Planning PS – Other 100.00
5,084.27
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Budget be amended accordingly”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #21 of 2020. SUBJECT: Resolution for Senior & Low Income Disabled
“WHEREAS, The Town Board of the Town of Jewett, in recognition of the Governor’s Executive Order dated December 18, 2020 we hereby resolve the following;
That subdivisions 7, 7-a and 8 of section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law, and subdivisions 5, 5-a, 5-b, 5-c and 6 of section 467 of the Real Property Tax Law detail annual renewals, we hereby direct the assessor to grant exemptions pursuant to such sections on the 2021 assessment roll to all property owners who received that exemption on the 2020 assessment roll, thereby dispensing with the need for renewal applications from such persons, and further dispensing with the requirement for assessors to mail renewal applications to such persons. Providing also that the assessor may require a renewal application to be filed when he or she has reason to believe that an owner who qualified for the exemption on the 2020 assessment roll may have since changed his or her primary residence, added another owner to the deed, had a significant income change, transferred the property to a new owner, or died.
Now Therefore be it resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Jewett hereby adopts this resolution.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #22 of 2020. SUBJECT: Setting the Fine Schedule for non-registration of STR Permit
“WHEREAS, Section 165-21.3 of the Jewett Zoning Code adopted as Local law #2 of 2019 authorizes the setting and collection of fines for non registration of Short Term Rental properties by the Jewett Town Board from time to time and approved by resolution; and
WHEREAS, the schedules for fines under Chapter 165-21.3 of the Jewett Town Code has not yet been set; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Jewett Board desires to set a fine schedule for non registration of Short Term Rental properties at this time; and
WHEREAS, the proposed fine schedule has been reviewed by the Jewett Town Board;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the following fine schedule is hereby approved and adopted:
First letter registration and clipping of web advertisement
Respond in 30 days of receipt, no fine.
No Response After 30 days
-$100.00 Fine
4. No Response After 60 days
-$500.00 Fine
5. No Response After 90 days
-$1,000.00 a month
Any month that an ad exists at all will count for the month. If there was any ad between 30 days and 60 days there is a $500.00 Fine. If none other after that,
no fine. If on day 30 there is an ad then there is an additional fine of $1000.00”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito
The floor was given to property owner, Luba Wyznyckyi giving her the opportunity to speak.
She said, “I own property on the corner of CR 17/ SR23A. I currently live in San Francisco, CA but I am heading back in 4 years and I was just curious to see what the board was up to. It was nice getting on and I hope to join you guys in the future, happy new year.”
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $8,505.24 on abstract #121, claim numbers 258-268.
The Highway Fund was $4,412.50 on abstract #121, claim numbers 182-183.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to go into executive session at 6:13pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to come out of executive session at 6:35pm.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to appoint Jim Franz as a member to the planning board for a 5 year term ending 12/2025 and Barbara Schobel as an alternate member to the planning board for a 5 year term ending 12/2025.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to adjourn the meeting at 6:38 PM.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: December 31, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday December 9, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:18 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
Brian Carl, Carol Muth, JR Quackenbush and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Hank Linhart, Christopher Hopstock, Simon Williams, Tal Rappleyea, Esq.,
Carl Giangrande CEO, Jacob Johnson, Kerri Kirschbaum, Rich Torre, Elliot Spero, Jason Pontillo,
201-214-7334, Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, and Buck and Christine Spero.
Also present were Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of November 10, 2020.
Highway Superintendents Report: Superintendent Mallory said, “Regarding road adoption, (Beecher Road). I have inspected the construction of Beecher Road throughout this summer and through the entirety, and state that this road meets and exceeds all standards set forth by Jewett road adoption policy. The adoption resolution is in your packet. Our town attorney, Tal Rappleyea is privy to all information regarding deed documents and mapping. I would ask that a councilperson make a motion to adopt the resolution as written making Beecher Road our newest town highway.
Regarding our new truck, the covid-19 virus has slowed everything. The new arrival date should be the first week in January. I have not completed the auction process to sell the 1 ton, as we cannot be left without a small vehicle, but the auction process will resume after the new truck arrives.
We have been doing some extensive clean up around the back of the salt barn, there are several old and useless pieces of equipment, 3 old plows (haven’t been used in 15 to 20 years) and old pieces of steel I would like declared surplus, then I can either put them up for bid or just take them to the scrap yard.
One other item that needs to be addressed, our highway department annually cleans the shoulders and ditches in our town and in doing so we acquire many truckloads of this shoulder and ditch material that needs to be hauled away. Dumping areas are basically non-existent. We rely on Jewett residence/ property owners to except our truckloads of material that are created by this ditching and shoulder improvement process.
This year during this process one of our trucks accidentally hit a homeowners stone pier in front of their home, it was our fault, but accidents do happen. It is my understanding from the homeowner that the town insurance denied the claim for the rebuilding of this residence stone pier. I would ask that there be some sort of resolve on the issue as we need our residence to accept these truckload fills. This is an extremely unusual occurrence; please we need to continue this process.”
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #18 of 2020.
SUBJECT: The Acceptance of Beecher Road as a Town of Jewett Highway.
“WHEREAS, based upon the recommendation of the Town of Jewett Highway Superintendent and the Town of Jewett Attorney,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, The Town of Jewett Board hereby accepts Beecher Rd. as a town highway as described in the attached application.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried, the board moved to declare the equipment and old pieces of steel behind the salt barn surplus.
The board discussed the Windham Ambulance contract and a meeting will be scheduled with the Town of Windham Supervisor to go over the details of the contract.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report.
Recently the Jewett and East Jewett Fire Departments have requested a list from the town that identifies all homes that have solar power. Supervisor Pellitteri told them to contact his assistant for the list.
The board went on to discuss STR’s and gave Christine and Buck Spero the floor.
Buck Spero said,” The owners were up in November and opened all doors and windows and played their music very loud. When I went to ask them to turn it down, I was told to shut the “F” up. They started a big outdoor fire 30-40’ from tree line and did not put it out. We made a video and asked them to stop but were told to call the police, so we did. As the town suggested we are keeping a log of incidents”.
Mrs. Spero then went on to read the following statement:
“Non-owner occupied short term rentals (STRs) primarily used for income generation (motels amidst residential homes) are owned by predatory investors and what the board does going forward must have the interest of the over 200 Jewett residents in the forefront, who’ve signed a petition voicing their unhappiness about these non-owner occupied investment STRs which are hollowing out our town. All of the residents who signed it expressed the strong desire for, at least, proximity guidelines between residences. The Town of Jewett does not benefit monetarily from these transients visiting Windham, Hunter and Tannersville stores. Perhaps Jewett should establish a business district where these STR investment property businesses would be allowed. If it is true that the property values and assessments are going up (and that is debatable) because of STRs then so too are our taxes. STRs are running commercial businesses but paying residential property taxes. It is discriminatory to a full-time resident who bought a home in Jewett because it was zoned rural residential only to find that the town board has allowed a full-time, full-fledged motel/hotel resort business with a fire pit, hot tub, trampoline, volleyball net and playground on less than 2 acres all within75 feet from the property line.
The New York State Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of a resident concerning single family residential occupancy in a residential zone. The argument was that an ever changing occupant is not considered a single family. She won across the board and code held. On the list of permitted land uses on the Jewett Land Use Code is single-family dwellings in the Rural Residential District. Boarding House/ B&B, and Motel/ Resort require Special Use Permits to “preserve the rural residential character of the town.”Towns are beginning to restrict or put a cap on the amount of days allowed to rent an STR and a cap on how many STRs there are. For example, in North Elba, New York: “No STR property may be rented for greater than 90 days in any given calendar year.”The Village of Athens distinguishes between owner-occupied rentals (Standard Short Term Rental=SSTR) and Short Term Rental Investment Properties (STR), a property that is not occupied by the owner and is primarily used for income generation. These investment properties require a Special Use Permit. We can’t afford to ignore the trend that these businesses operating in strictly residential districts and towns are driving up home prices and making normal rental properties more scarce, thus less available to working families and those who might want to live in Jewett. New buyers interested in residing here would not purchase a home next to an STR. Finally, having non-owner occupied STRs in Jewett places the burden on the resident in close proximity of having to adjust their lives to accommodate the hundreds of transients being funneled through these unlawful hotel businesses each year destroying the nature of our rural residential communities.”
Councilman Quackenbush said,” There are other towns out there that limiting the number of days permitted to rent. The owner can still make money and the residents get a break”.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to re-appoint Paul La Pierre as a member to the planning board for 5 years, term ending 12/2025.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to re-appoint Greg Kroyer as the planning board chair for 1 year.
AYE- Pellitteri, Muth and Carl. NAY- Quackenbush and Romito.
Other Business: There was an incident on Rt. 296 in Jewett where a homeowner had started flying a flag with profanity written on it. Numerous complaints came into the town.
Carl Giangrande, CEO went to the house twice but no one was home.
Councilman Quackenbush also went to speak with the homeowner and was able to meet him.
He asked him to be reasonable and the homeowner agreed that it was a short lived event and will be removed.
The end of the year meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday December 30, 2020 at 5pm thru zoom meetings.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $43,940.19 on abstract #12, claim numbers 225-257.
The Highway Fund was $33,951.45 on abstract #12, claim numbers 170-181.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for October and November 2020.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to go into executive session at 8:33pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to come out of executive session at 9:25pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:26pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: December 15, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Tuesday November 10, 2020. The meeting was rescheduled to honor our Veterans as it originally fell on Veterans Day. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:12 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito. Absent was JR Quackenbush.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, and Buck and Christine Spero.
Also absent were Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of October 14, 2020.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of October 28, 2020.
The board discussed the Windham Ambulance contract and it was decided that more information was needed.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to authorize Supervisor Pellitteri to sign the annual contract with Columbia Greene Humane Society/ SPCA .
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to authorize Supervisor Pellitteri to sign the annual contract with Greene County regarding the Nutrition Site contract.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #17 of 2020.
SUBJECT: TAX COLLECTORS YEAR END REPORT
“WHEREAS, the Town Tax Collector is required to give the Town Board an annual report of monies received and paid out during the tax collection period,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Tax Collector offers the following report for the period of January 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020
Amount of County Warrant $3,045,259.11
Amount Paid County 1,671,450.21
Amount Paid Town 1,094,921.00 (before penalties, service fee and interest)
Penalties Service Fee Interest
January 28.44
February 595.17
March 2,949.56 641.27
April 1,684.47 22.00 385.09
May 2,667.97 42.00 381.16
June 2,033.58 40.00 386.67
July 3,021.81 64.00 416.09
August 302.12
TOTAL 12,357.39 168.00 3,136.01
TOTAL PENALTIES, SERVICE FEE & INTREST PAID TO TOWN $ 15,661.40
TOTAL AMOUNT PAID TO TOWN $ 1,110,582.40
TOTAL AMOUNT OF WARRANT____ $ 3,045,259.11
TOTAL PAID TO COUNTY AND TOWN $ 2,766,371.21
AMOUNT OF TAXES UNPAID $ 278,887.90”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Carl and Romito. Councilman Quackenbush was absent.
Christine Spero was given the floor to mention the incidents pertaining to the STR next door to them. Mrs. Spero asked the board what will be done as she does not want to spend the rest of her life calling the police every weekend. She also reiterated the fact that she has collected over 200 signatures for her petition to stop STR’s or to at least make a law saying that there has to be a 500’ minimum distance between an STR and a residence.
Supervisor Pellitteri said that the town is trying their best to work this out saying, “We don’t have the tools right now. We are getting the tools”.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $9,214.28 on abstract #11, claim numbers 209-224.
The Highway Fund was $14,666.70 on abstract #11, claim numbers 151-169.
The Supervisors financial report for October 2020 was tabled until the December general meeting.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:49pm.
___________________
Minutes taken from digital recording
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: November 17, 2020
A special meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday October 28, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 6:02 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Carl Giangrande, CEO, Christine and Buck Sperro and Christopher Hopstock.
Also present was the Town Clerk.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, seconded by Councilwoman Romito and carried, the Board opened the public hearing for the 2021 Preliminary Budget at 6:12 P.M.
Discussions were had regarding the preliminary budget.
There was no public comment.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried, the board moved to close the public hearing for the preliminary budget at 6:35 pm.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, seconded by Councilwoman Romito and carried, the Board opened the public hearing for Local Law #1 of 2020 entitled, “A LOCAL LAW TO OVERRIDE THE TAX LEVY LIMIT ESTABLISHED IN GENERAL MUNICIPAL LAW §3-C”at 6:35 pm
There was no public comment.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, the board moved to close the public hearing for the proposed Tax Cap Override Law at 6:37 pm.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, Local Law #1 of 2020 was adopted. This law is entitled, “A LOCAL LAW TO OVERRIDE THE TAX LEVY LIMIT ESTABLISHED IN GENERAL MUNICIPAL LAW §3-C”
Be it enacted by the Town Board of the Town of Jewett as follows:
“Section 1. Legislative Intent: It is the intent of this local law to override the limit on the amount of real property taxes that may be levied by the Town of Jewett pursuant to General Municipal Law §3-c, and to allow the Town of Jewett to adopt a budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2021 and ending December 31, 2021 that requires a real property tax levy in excess of the “tax levy limit “as defined by General Municipal Law §3-c.
Section 2. Authority: This local law is adopted pursuant to subdivision 5 of General Municipal Law §3-c, which expressly authorizes the Town board to override the tax levy limit by the adoption of a local law approved by vote of at least sixty percent (60%) of the Town Board.
Section 3. Tax Levy Limit Override: The Town Board of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene is hereby authorized to adopt a budget for the fiscal year 2021 that requires a real property tax levy in excess of the amount otherwise prescribed in General Municipal Law §3-c.
Section 4. Severability: If any clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, or part of this local law or the application thereof to any person, firm or corporation, or circumstance, shall be adjusted by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unconstitutional, such order or judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, or part of this local law or in its application to the person, individual, firm or corporation or circumstance, directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment or order shall be rendered.
Section 5 Effective date: This local law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Voting to adopt the Preliminary Budget for 2021.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried The Board adopted Resolution #16 of 2020. SUBJECT: Adoption of the 2021 Preliminary Budget as the Final Budget.
“WHEREAS, the Town of Jewett board held a public hearing for the preliminary budget for 2021 and no changes were made,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, The Town of Jewett Board moves to adopt the preliminary budget for 2021 as the final budget.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Discussions were had regarding the MSMA (Mountain Top Supervisors and Mayors Assoc.) meeting as well as continued STR discussions.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried, the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:21 pm.
__________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: November 17, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday October 14, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:07 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Tal Rappleyea, Esquire,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, Buck and Christine Spero, Carl Giangrande CEO,
Shane McAndrew, Tony Melluzzo, Montesano, K. Zarella, A&K, Rebecca Yarger, Anita Martino, Elide Bell, Simon Williams, Nathan Miles, Tony B, Walter Dodson, 12286, Leonard Seastone, Brandons I phone, Robert Fuller, Erik Lewis, Steve & Li, Sheila Trautman, Joan Kutcher, Corine C, I phone, Sharon Meluzzo, Elissa I phone2, Ben Cohen, A. Prince, 917-286-8586, 312-420-6911, 646-208-6203, 646-295-3190, 201-290-1180, Christopher Hopstock, Joan Pontillo, Travis Lindhorst, Charles Mulholand, Jennifer Keene-Moore, 646-295-3150, Steves I pad, 914-263-3195, Jacob Johnson and Steven Levi.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of September 9, 2020.
Highway Superintendents Report: Superintendent Mallory announced to the board that Beecher Rd. will finally be brought up to specs and will be ready to be turned over to the town next month. In the Superintendents travels thru town, he noticed that one of our residents put up a gate on a town road. Superintendent Mallory approached the owner and told him he must take it down. He gave him 2 days to do it.
Our 2006 GMC 1 ton 3500 is ready to be auctioned off. Superintendent Mallory asked the board to declare the old truck surplus so that the auction proceedings could begin.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried, the board moved to declare the 2006 GMC 1 ton 3500 surplus equipment.
The board discussed the code enforcement officer’s report. The CEO said he sent a letter out to the house on 23C next to the Sperro residence, regarding their wedding event that they were not permitted to have. Councilman Quackenbush asked why their license was not suspended.
The CEO answered that the letter was a forewarning and that the next verifiable infraction may warrant pulling their certificate. He said he needs all complaints in writing.
The CEO also reported that he ordered a cease and assist on wedding events for the house on Round Hill Road and has been working with the owner to get him into compliance.
Mr. Giangrande also gave an update regarding the trailer on 296 and said he has had several conversations to address the various issues, which renders various results. He sent the owner a letter but the owner has not responded. He will send a second letter out warning of fines.
Christine Spero was given the floor to mention the incidents pertaining to the STR next door to them. Mrs. Spero said, “I have gone out to all the residents of the town of Jewett and asked them to sign a petition banning STR’s. I have over 200 signatures to date. I am presenting this to the town so that the board can see how many people are disturbed by STR’s and don’t want them.”
They asked the board what will be done. Carl Giangrande, CEO said he needs more verifiable infractions. The Sperro’s said they don’t understand, they have been doing everything the town has been asking them, for example keeping a paper trail of incidents and calling the police as needed, they asked Carl, CEO, isn’t that good enough and Carl said no, he needs more concrete evidence. Councilman Quackenbush will put together in writing the course of events that took place when he had gone to the property next door to them during the illegal wedding.
Courtesy of the floor was given to the public to speak about short term rentals:
The town clerk read aloud a letter written by STR owner Barbara Eyland in favor of STR’s.
Nathan Miles took the floor and said, “I am a 7th generation resident of Jewett. Christine Sperro came to my house and asked me to sign a petition against STR’s. I am a caretaker of STR’s and I would like to encourage peace between the two parties. STR’s are not new, just a new way. If STR’s are banned, that would be unconstitutional. Mrs. Sperro’s petition wants to ban STR’s and some people who signed it, did not realize that. I am asking the town not to punish STR owners that follow the rules and are responsible.”
Leonard Seastone said, “I don’t care about past rentals, we have a problem now. New people are infringing on our area. The board passes laws and ordinances that are not enforceable.
No one is afraid of zoning. I would like the board to press the police. Look at what Lexington is doing.”
A&K said, “Well if you don’t like all the people coming here, then don’t live in a resort community.”
Jason Pontillo said, “I used to be a part time resident, I am now full time. When Mrs. Sperro came to my house regarding the petition, I signed it but felt violated. She right away demanded to know if I was a home owner etc. We have a right to STR’s but I felt I had no choice but to sign her petition and I signed the lesser of the two instead of banning it all together. Please lets try to work together.”
Chris Hopstock said, “I own a home on Ford Hill Rd. that I rent out occasionally as an STR.
I make sure they know all the rules regarding noise, littering etc. For the last two and a half years our renters have been very good. Why punish the good owners? Also, STR’s are very good for the town as they increase property values.”
John Zarilla said, “In Lexington, they are adding water testing to their STR law. I have a Culligan system and our water is very good. Is this something Jewett will be looking to add onto their STR law?”
Councilman Quackenbush said, “We have not discussed water testing but, it’s not very expensive to get done. I think Lexington is requiring owners of STR’s to get a sample test of their water either every 6 months or quarterly, it can be done in Hunter and its only $35 a test.”
Water Dodson said, “I would like to address the previous comment that was made saying that if we don’t like all the extra people coming up here then we shouldn’t live in a resort town. This offends me. I have lived here for over 15 years, this is my home. That comment paints the attitude of the 2nd home owner. Yes, this is resort town but 1st this is our home. Comments like those are what got us to the degree of this level. This is our home; please respect us like you respect your home”.
Elide Bell said, “I live here full time and I don’t disagree with STR’s. There is a way to come together. There should be a consensus with the general information that you must hang.”
Supervisor Pellitteri said, “Yes, we do this, we require all STR owners to hang town law information in their homes for their renters to see our laws.”
Elide Bell said, “How does the town know who rents?”
Supervisor Pellitteri said, “We have been working on this for a year, trying to work out all the details. We looked at STR law models from all over the country before we made a decision as how to appropriately regulate STR’s within Jewett. We hired a company that tracks STR rentals. We know who is renting. We began by making the law that STR’s need to register. We are now working on the fine schedule for those who do not register and for those whose renters don’t follow town laws. It has not been any easy process but whether you are in favor or not in favor, if we didn’t acknowledge STR’s they would go underground. This way they are regulated and we are at ground zero.”
Jake Johnson said, “I am a future resident of Jewett, a realtor and litigator in NYC. If the town removes an owner’s certificate there will be a legal battle. Property values will drop if you don’t allow STR’s. I feel that STR’s in Jewett is not a problem. It’s your local law enforcement that is the problem.”
Rebecca Yarger said, “I just wanted to state that I have been running STR’s since 2016 and I have had fantastic guests. I agree with Chris and Nathan that the owners would like to cooperate with the town and be good neighbors.”
Councilman Quackenbush said, “I agree with Rebecca and Chris. We have a lot of great owners out there but we have to deal with the bad eggs. We don’t really know the both of you and that’s a good thing”.
Councilwoman Romito said, “We need all the good and the bad to figure out a solution”.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Supervisor Pellitteri and carried the board moved to table discussions regarding the proposed parking law to the November general meeting.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried The Board adopted Resolution #15 of 2020. SUBJECT: Adoption and Retention Schedule for New York Local Governments
“RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Jewett that RETENTION AND DISPOSITION SCHEDULE FOR NEW YORK GOVERNEMENT RECORDS (LGS-1), issued pursuant to Article 57-A of the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law, and containing legal minimum retention periods for local government records, is hereby adopted for use by all officers in legally disposing of valueless records listed therein.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that in accordance with Article 57-A:
Only those records will be disposed of that are described in RETENTION and DISPOSITION SCHEDULE FOR NY LOCAL GOVERNMENT RECORDS (LGS-1), after they have met the minimum retention periods described therein;
Only those records will be disposed of that do not have sufficient administrative, fiscal, legal, or historical value to merit retention beyond established legal minimum periods.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Discussions were had regarding the tentative budget.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, the board moved to accept the tentative budget as the preliminary budget, with changes made to the code enforcement officer and workman’s compensation line items.
The town board then scheduled two public hearings for Wednesday October 28, 2020 at 6pm.
The first public hearing will be for the budget and the second public hearing for the Tax Cap Law.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, the board moved to donate $500 to The Hunter Public Library.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $10,835.06 on abstract #10, claim numbers 188-208.
The Highway Fund was $8,364.53 on abstract #10, claim numbers 138-150.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for September 2020.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to go into executive session at 8:58pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to come out of executive session at 9:18pm. No action was taken.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:51pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: October 15, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday September 9, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:02 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Tal Rappleyea, Esquire,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, Buck Spero, Carl Giangrande CEO,
Vincent Dibennedetto, Brett Hogan, Melissa Boyton, Ben Cohen and Catalina Roman.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
The supervisor took a moment to explain the difference between a public hearing and a regular general meeting. He said, “In a public hearing the public has the right to express their thoughts. In a regular board meeting the public does not have the right to speak. But the way I have run the meetings is that I do give the public courtesy of the floor so that we can have a discussion if there is an issue. I will allow anyone who would like to speak 3 minutes time to do so.”
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of July 8, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of August 12, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of August 27, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl
and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report for August 2020.
Highway Superintendents Report: The salt barn is full and ready for the winter season.
Our 2006 GMC 1 ton 3500 has been in operation for 15 years, but unfortunately it has started breaking down badly with the floor rotting out underneath. Superintendent is looking to purchase new 1 ton. The old one is still worth around $10,000 – 20,000 and can be put towards auction. Superintendent is asking the board permission to buy a new 2020 1 ton for $105,000.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to give Superintendent Mallory permission to buy the truck for $105,000.
Buck Spero was given the floor to mention the incidents pertaining to the STR next door to them. Mr. Spero said, “Last month was more positive, we didn’t get shot at. We didn’t have to call the police. The negatives are that they are still renting to multiple groups, shooting off fireworks after 11pm, with late night party screaming as a regular thing. Another group comes up and fly’s drones. One renter left and didn’t turn the lights off. For 2 days and the whole estate was lit up all night long like Disney Land. It’s just too close to our house and to have a business, not a residence next door is not what we imagined after 30+ years of peaceful living here. Could the town do a distance ordinance?”
Supervisor Pellitteri mentioned that he spoke to the owners of the house and told them to try and move the age group up of whom he rents to. Supervisor Pellitteri also said he didn’t think that distance regulations are a bad idea and we could possibly make it a distance of 200’, he said he would ask the board how they felt about it.
Supervisor Pellitteri then asked Tal Rappleyea, Esq. what the process for STR fines would be?
Mr. Rappleyea answered, “If someone doesn’t register, you could fine them up to $1,000 monthly. Also, write a local law that sets forth the various fines, then change by resolution.
If we send a person a bill for fines, they can ignore it but we can bring them into court, local or supreme, then jail. We can also pull their license. Think about a fine system and let me know. We can work out a schedule.”
Carl Giangrande, CEO said, “I would like to see something more like this, 3 notices sent, then appearance tickets given and then a fine or incarceration.”
Tal Rappleyea, Esq. also said, “Grandfather everyone who registered this year and then make all others go to special use permits.”
Melissa Boyton took the floor and said, “I am very worried about the quality of life with the excessive STR’s in our town. The trash, noise and crowds are very concerning to me”.
Supervisor Pellitteri updated Ms. Boyton with what the town is doing about this and said we are hoping to control this with a firm hand.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, the board moved to appoint Greg Kroyer as the official planning board liaison to the town board.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Supervisor Pellitteri and carried the board moved to table the parking law to the October general meeting.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board adopted Resolution #12 of 2020. SUBJECT: WAIVING ACQUISITION EXCLUSIONSTREAMSIDE ACQUISITION PROGRAM/RIPARIAN BUFFER PROGRAM
“WHEREAS, the Town of Jewett, Greene County is located within the boundaries of the New York City water-supply watershed, West of Hudson(“Watershed”); and
WHEREAS, in December 2010, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued a water supply permit (WSA # 11,352) to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection(“NLYCDEP”)authorizing a land acquisition and management program (“LAP”)within the Watershed for the purpose of water quality protection (“WSP”), which has been amended from time to time most recently June 25, 2016 ; and
WHEREAS, Special Condition 29 of the WSP required the funding and establishment of a Riparian Buffers Program (“RBP”) for the acquisition of riparian buffers in fee or by easement within the Watershed; and
WHEREAS, the RBP is now known as the Streamside Acquisition Program (“SAP”) and is being implemented by the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development (“CCCD”) as PILOT program in conjunction with NYCDEP pursuant to the WSP; and
WHEREAS, Special Condition 7 of the WSP established the land acquisition eligibility criteria and authorization for the RBP/SAP as being determined solely based upon meeting the surface water features thresholds (but not steep slopes thresholds) in Special Condition 9.a.2.a – d. and falling outside the acquisition exclusion areas (hamlet or village designations) in Special Condition l0 unless such exclusion is waived in individual municipalities by the town or village boards by resolution authorizing the Riparian Buffer Program and the specific parcels described and covered by such program; and
WHEREAS, Special Condition 10 of the WSP provides for exclusions from the LAP for, among other reasons, land within an incorporated village designated by the Village Board (“Designated Village Area”)and land within a town and designated as hamlet in whole or in part by the Town Board (“Designated Hamlet Area”); and
WHEREAS, the Town [Village] has previously established a Designated Hamlet [Village] Area; and
WHEREAS, the Town [Village] Board has received a request from the owner of a parcel of land located within the Designated Hamlet Area, located at 8465-8549, tax parcel # 163.00-2-7(“Property”) for a walver from the Town Designated Hamlet Area exclusion from the LAP in order to participate in the RBP/SAP; and
WHEREAS, Special Condition 10.g. of the WSP authorizes the waiver of Designated Hamlet Areas for participation in the RBP/SAP by Town [Village] Board resolution; and
WHEREAS, CCCD has confirmed to the Town Board that apart from the Designated Hamlet [Village]exclusion, the Property meets the eligibility criteria under the SAP,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The Town Board hereby grants a waiver from the Designated Hamlet Area exclusion to the Property (tax map # 1,63.00-2-7, #163.00-2-8, solely for the purpose of participation in the SAP.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board adopted Resolution #13 of 2020. SUBJECT: Authorization for Supervisor to sign union contract
“WHEREAS, The Town of Jewett Supervisor has negotiated a contract between the Town of Jewett and The Laborers’ International union of North America, Local No. 17,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Jewett Board authorizes the Supervisor to sign the contract between the town of Jewett and The Laborers’ International Union of North America, Local No. 17”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to appoint Donald Muth Jr. as a member of the Board of Assessment Review (BAR)
for a 5 year term.
Councilman Quackenbush gave an update regarding Colgate Lake and said that control measures that were put in place and the sheriffs presence is working very well.
He has received much positive feedback and would like to put a game plan together with DEC and Greene County for next year, possible steward program.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board adopted Resolution #14 of 2020. SUBJECT: Creation of new line item, A3010.4 Public Administration.
“THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Jewett Board creates a new line item,
A3010.4 titled, Public Administration”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Muth, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Other Business: Councilman Quackenbush brought up an issue regarding a home on Round Hill Road that had a wedding last weekend with over 100 people. He is concerned because NYS does not allow for an event with over 50 people due to the current situation with COVID-19.
Councilman Quackenbush went to the house and saw no one wearing masks or practicing social distancing. He took pictures and has videos of the illegal event. He says it is very irresponsible in his opinion and Councilman Quackenbush believes this home is being run as a wedding venue business and says the owner should come in and apply for a special use permit.
Tal Rappleyea, Esq. said that the town can report the owner to the NYS health department for violating the maximum capacity limits for an event. The town opted not to do that but instead,
CEO, Carl Giangrande will send out a cease and assist order for future events unless a special use permit is applied for. The board was satisfied with this.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $11,192.47 on abstract #9, claim numbers 163-187.
The Highway Fund was $10,074.05 on abstract #9, claim numbers 119-137.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for August 2020.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to go into executive session at 8:47pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”. Specifically, the Union Contract.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to come out of executive session at 9:31pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:32pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: September 11, 2020
An emergency meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Thursday August 27, 2020.
Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 2 P.M. Present were Board Members
Carol Muth, JR Quackenbush, Brian Carl and Marianne Romito. The town clerk was absent.
The meeting was held thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to appoint Kate Lynch-Williams as a member to the zoning board of appeals from 2018-12/31/2022.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to appoint Kate Lynch-Williams as the chair to the zoning board of appeals for the remainder of 2020.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to appoint Charles Kutcher to the zoning board of appeals from 2019-12/31/2023 years.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 2:05pm.
___________________________
Minutes taken from digital recording
Maya Carl, RMC Town Clerk
Added: September 11, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday August 12, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:05 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Tal Rappleyea, Esquire,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, Buck Spero, Kate and Simon Williams, Sheila and Paul Trautman, Hank Linhart and Lauren Elliot.
Absent was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of July 23, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth
and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report for July 2020.
Buck Spero was given the floor to mention the incidents pertaining to the STR next door to the Spero’s.
Colgate Lake:
Councilman Quackenbush reported to the board the results of the first shifts of the sheriff’s at Colgate Lake. Very satisfactory.
Attorney Rappleyea suggested that we have a contract with the sheriff.
Councilman Quackenbush said that he would contact the sheriff for a contract.
Supervisor Pellitteri noted concern that with Jewett paying for the service, even though it was a donation that we were signaling that it was our responsibility when it should by DEC as it was their initiative and advertising that caused the overflow. Councilman Quackenbush then commented that this current suggestion may only be a short term solution.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $7,747.44 on abstract #8, claim numbers 146-162.
The Highway Fund was $57,848.51 on abstract #8, claim numbers 95-118.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for July 2020.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to go into executive session at 8:27pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to come out of executive session at 8:54pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54pm.
___________________
Minutes Taken by Supervisor Pellitteri
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: September 11, 2020
An emergency meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Thursday July 23, 2020.
Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7 P.M. Present were Board Members
JR Quackenbush, Brian Carl and Marianne Romito. Councilwoman Muth and the town clerk were absent.
The meeting was held thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic.
The sole item was passing Resolution #11 of 2020:
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried,
The Board adopted Resolution #11 of 2020:
“The Town of Jewett board is asking Greene County Highway Department to install No Parking sings on Colgate Lake Rd. from 365 Colgate Rd. to Harriman Camp on both sides of the road. In addition, we request Greene County Sheriff to enforce the law with appropriate means”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl and Romito.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:25pm.
___________________________
Minutes taken by Supervisor Pellitteri
Maya Carl, RMC Town Clerk
Added: September 11, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday July 8, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:07 P.M. The meeting was held in the Senior Center of The Jewett Town Hall and thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Tal Rappleyea, Esquire,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, Buck Spero, Barbara Lester, Joan and Charles Kutcher, Linda Nicholls, Celine and Pascale Stillman, Diane Hill, Donna Bernard, Helen T, Irenes I-Pad,
J. Martin, Sean Mahoney Hunter Town Board Member, Misha Reydel, Kate and Simon Williams, Richard Rawson, Sandra West, Elaine Warfield and Lisa Schreibman.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
An issue was brought forth by the residents of Colgate Lake regarding the weekend of
July 4, 2020. Simon Williams, resident of Colgate Lake took the floor to address the board.
He stated that he has been a resident of this area since 1989 and he has never before witnessed such a constant flow of traffic. Over the 4th of July weekend the parking lot was completely full and cars were parked ½ a mile in both directions. He stated that it looked like Jones Beach. Cars were also parked blocking peoples driveways and residents were unable to get out. Mr. Williams took a video of the blockage of cars and it took him 10 minutes to get from one side to the other when it normally takes less than 1 minute. Mr. Williams is extremely concerned that if there was an emergency at Camp Harriman, emergency responders would not be able to get thru.
Neither would they be able to get thru to Colgate Lake if there was an emergency or fire there.
Also because of the excessive parking on the road blocking resident’s driveways, an emergency vehicle would not be able to access a resident’s homes to help them.
Diane Hill, resident of Colgate Lake took the floor and related to the board that there was an alarming number of campers with no facilities. This was very concerning to her as she questioned where all of those campers where using the bathroom, saying if they are going in the woods, fecal matter can spread the coronavirus.
Sandra West, resident of Colgate Lake added that they are not only going in the woods but in the lake as well. Colgate Lake gets emptied out into the Eastkill which eventually makes its way to NYC drinking water and can contaminate the water quality. She then went on to describe the masses of people who were there as rude and inconsiderate as she also witnessed them parking on private property and disposing of their garbage wherever they felt like.
Elaine Warfield, resident of 23C near Lake Colgate witnessed the overwhelming mass of people turning into Colgate Lake Rd. She was behind a car that had a full garbage bag hanging out the window ready to dump. Ms. Warfield told them not to dump the garbage on the road and that she was videotaping them. Ultimately they ended up throwing the garbage on a property owner’s yard.
Celine Stillman took the floor and addressed the board. She said that her house is the last one right before the lake and that her and her family felt overwhelmed and frightened by the uncontrolled amounts of people. Cars were going very fast. People were very noisy and hollering and she was afraid. She related that it was extremely overwhelming.
Lisa Schriebman took the floor and related to the board that she has lived here since 1982 and has never seen the lake so poorly managed as it was this past 4th of July. She said that there were way too many cars, no garbage areas and only 2 outhouses. She also mentioned this was a public health crisis way beyond the pandemic. Ms. Schriebman is requesting this issue be addressed and resolved.
Linda Nicholls, resident of Scribner Hollow Rd. took the floor and asked, “Just recently Katterskill Falls was closed because social distancing couldn’t be maintained. Could this be a reason we could shut down the lake? Due to health hazards? Can the town restrict the number of cars? By saying the limit has been reached?”
Joanne Martin, resident of Colgate Lake asked if campfires are legal.
Tal Rappleyea, attorney for the town, suggested a link on the governor’s website for complaints against mass gatherings and violations of health guidelines.
Supervisor Pellitteri suggested that DEC either controls or closes the lake until a solution can be found.
Councilman Quackenbush said, “In the beginning of the pandemic, we placed a ban on short term rentals to protect our town. We were able to keep the infection numbers down. Now we have an influx of people up here that are not practicing social distancing or wearing masks.
I am looking to put together a special meeting with DEP & DEC to discuss the possibilities.”
Sandra West, resident, asked if we could invite the Greene County Sheriff’s office as well and Councilman Quackenbush answered yes.
Sean Mahoney, Hunter Town Board Member took the floor and told the Jewett Board that the Town of Hunter has been seeing the same problem regarding Katterskill Cloves. He suggested reaching out to our health officer, Dr. Robert Schneider regarding the safety and health concerns at Colgate Lake. Dr. Schneider can write a letter to NYS and as a health officer, his letter will have a lot of weight suggesting limiting people do to overuse.
Pascal Stillman, resident of Colgate Lake took the floor and brought up Forest Ranger Katie Fox mentioning that she is doing a great job and that she needs additional resources.
Supervisor Pellitteri suggested all the residents write multiple letters to NYSDEC and Greene County Highway Department.
Town Clerk, Maya Carl suggested residents reach out to Jim Thorington, our Greene County Legislature. She also informed residents that the Greene County Legislature will be meeting on July 15th at 6:30pm for their monthly meeting.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of May 13, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of June 10, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito
and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report for June 2020.
Highway Superintendent’s Report: The following roads have been paved, Merwin St. part 1, Bailey Rd. part 1, Millhollow Rd., Tahoe Rd., Wilderness Dr. East and Griffin Rd., everything went smoothly. Superintendent Mallory noted that he took a chance by bidding the paving job earlier but it paid off since he was able to get it for $18,000 cheaper than last year.
The highway crew has also been mowing and maintaining Maplewood Cemetery.
Bids were re-advertised for the 2020/21 hauling of salt and sand for the Town of Jewett.
Bids were opened June 23, 2020 at 10am.
The following sealed bid was received:
Carver Sand & Gravel – $7.25 per ton.
The bid was accepted.
Supervisor Pellitteri asked Superintendent Mallory if he could go over to Towner and Farber Farm cemeteries and see what type of labor would be involved in fixing the stone walls.
Other Business: Buck Spero took the floor to update the board on the situation they are having with their neighbors who are running a STR. Since March, they have had 3 noise calls into the Greene County sherriff’s office, 1 fire call and 2 garbage calls into DEP.
They have had pellet guns shot towards their house while they were outside being only
75/ 50 feet away. Music is continually blaring every weekend all night long. When the Sperro’s asked them politely to turn the music down, the renters told them, “we paid mad money for this place and we can do anything we want.” Garbage was left outside after a weekend renter left and attracted a bear that then dragged it out on the road and was hit by a car. The bear limped off but the fender was broken. Mr. Spero then mentioned one more incident. It was 3am and he heard voices outside by his deck. Mr. Spero went outside and found 6 or 7 people very close to his property. He said to them,” Hey guys its 3am in the morning can you please quiet down”. They people responded, “F#*% you” and told him to go back to bed.
Mr. Spero said that he had never been spoken to in such a disrespectful way in all his life.
Councilwoman Romito asked Tal Rappleyea, Esq. how we can better enforce our laws.
Councilwoman Muth asked if we could fine the owners of the rentals and if they didn’t pay, could we re-levy the civil penalties onto their tax bills. Attorney Rappleyea answered yes.
Councilman Quackenbush suggested The Spero’s start contacting other residents that are going thru the same thing as them. He said that there is weight in numbers and they should get other residents to write letters regarding the issues they are facing with STR’s next door.
Supervisor Pellitteri said he is thinking of possibly making STR’s a special use permit and asked Attorney Rappleyea what his advice was. Tal Rappleyea, Esq said that a majority of the towns are now making STR a special use permit.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $25,840.53 on abstract #7, claim numbers 124-145.
The Highway Fund was $150,898.00 on abstract #7, claim numbers 76-94.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for June 2020.
Supervisor Pellitteri made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to go into executive session at 8:27pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to come out of executive session at 8:54pm. No action was taken.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: July 09, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday June 10, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:08 P.M. The meeting was held thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Tal Rappleyea, Esquire,
Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter and Christine and Buck Sperro.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried
The Board moved to table the minutes of May 13, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report for May 2020.
Councilwoman Muth voted nay.
Highway Superintendent’s Report: We have been patching and repairing roads.
Bids were advertised for the 2020 highway black top paving project for the Town of Jewett. Bids were opened June 8, 2020 at 10am.
The following sealed bids were received:
Cobleskill – $72.50
Peckham – $65.50
Callanan – $68.68
The lowest responsible bidder was Peckham at $65.50 per ton in place. The bid from Peckham was accepted.
Bids were advertised for the 2020/21 hauling of salt and sand for the Town of Jewett.
Bids were opened June 8, 2020 at 10am.
The following sealed bid was received:
Carver Sand & Gravel – $7.50 per ton.
The bid was not accepted and will be re-bid.
Other Business: Christine and Buck Spero took the floor to update the board on the situation they are having with their neighbors who are running a STR. They had another incident this past weekend and had to call the police 3 times. Mrs. Spero asked if she should call the Code Enforcement Officer if there are incidents. Tal Rappleyea, Esq. told the Spero’s that legally they have the ability to bring a law suit against their neighbor on the grounds of private nuisance.
The Spero’s said they will look into that.
The board recently received a letter from town resident, Tom Hitchcock relating that the stones of the cemetery that is on the Farber farm is falling apart. The board agreed to get prices to fix the stone wall.
Town Clerk, Maya Carl recently received a letter from NYS DEC stating that they were terminating the town of Jewett’s license sales because there was only an average of 15 hunting/ fishing licenses sold per year in the last 3 years. The town clerk wrote them a letter stating the reasons why they should not take away our ability to sell licenses. NYS DEC responded saying they will continue to allow us to sell. The town clerk stated she would try her best to encourage more sales and is hoping more people support the town of Jewett instead of going on the internet or to a big box store.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board gave Supervisor Pellitteri authorization to sign the Memorandum of Understanding for the Implementation of the Schoharie Creek and East Kill Stream Management Plan and Local Flood Hazard Mitigation between The Town of Jewett and the Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $12,594.59 on abstract #6, claim numbers 99-123.
The Highway Fund was $5,635.54 on abstract #6, claim numbers 71-75.
Councilwoman Romito and Councilman Carl abstained.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for May 2020.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to go into executive session at 8:06pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to come out of executive session at 8:24pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:24pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: July 09, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday May 13, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:11 P.M. The meeting was held thru Zoom Meetings due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present were Board Members:
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Chris Hopstock, Brett Hogan,
Anita Hewitt, Michael Ryan, Mountain Eagle Reporter, Lazlo Hajnoczi, Manu Dutt and
Christine and Buck Sperro.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilwoman Muth, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of April 8, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of April 30, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to table the Code Enforcement Officers report as it was not distributed.
The board also discussed illegal building that is occurring around town. It was decided to have the CEO look into specific places that are building without a permit.
Highway Superintendent’s Report: Spring Clean Up Day has been postponed to the fall because of the current situation we are in with the coronavirus. The highway crew has been functioning at 50% capacity due to the stay at home orders of non-essential workers.
With the crew we did have, we have been cleaning shoulders and sweeping roads; taking care of debris, brush, down trees and branches.
Other Business: Christine and Buck Spero took the floor to update the board on the situation they are having with their neighbors who are running a STR. Even though all STR’s in Jewett have been suspended due to the emergency declaration, this specific STR has continued to rent during March and April. The Spero’s live 75’ away from the STR and they feel as if they live next door to a house with a hotel of a revolving door. Mrs. Spero said this is a business not a home. She says that she calls the police when there are issues, which are quite often, and the police tell her to talk with the town and the town tells her to talk to the police and she feels like she is just going around in circles.
A possible town facebook page was discussed. Some board members felt it would be a good way to get information out to the public. Other board members felt it was legally questionable.
In the end it was decided to continue to develop and promote the town’s website as the official place to garnish information.
Short Term Rentals: Brett Hogan, property owner in the Town of Jewett took the floor and addressed the board regarding the ban that was placed on Short Term Rentals (STR) due to the emergency declaration that Jewett made regarding the coronavirus pandemic.
He wanted to know if the board had any idea what direction they are going in regarding the continuance of the ban.
Anita Hewitt took the floor and related to the board that she cleans houses for a living and that the ban has hurt her financially. She says that people are still coming up here for 2-3 days at a time regardless of the ban and that for people who are trying to follow the rules, their small businesses are being hurt. She states that she doesn’t understand the difference if the owner comes up themselves or a renter.
Lazlo Hajnoczi took the floor and said he understands why Jewett did what they did but what he cannot understand is why Jewett is the only town on the mountain top to issue a ban on STR. He states that people are here anyway. He wanted to know if the Town of Jewett plans on following NYS re-opening phases or if the town has its own plan to open back up.
Manu Dutt, owner of Hunter Brewery took the floor to relate to the board that there is no issue with the food supply on the mountain top. He said if we are worried about the grocery stores being surged with extra people he suggests an implementation of a check list inside STR’s that include clauses stating that people who are renting can only buy food from a restaurant and not the grocery store.
Councilman Quackenbush assured everyone that their thoughts would be considered as we are trying to protect all people.
Supervisor Pellitteri said, “Once the governor opens with a plan, then we can too and we won’t drag our feet with this but at this point we still have to wait”.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $12,238.33 on abstract #5, claim numbers 74-98.
The Highway Fund was $10,796.65 on abstract #5, claim numbers 62-70.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for April 2020.
Supervisor Pellitteri made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to go into executive session at 8:25pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation”.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to come out of executive session at 8:46pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:46pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: May 18, 2020
A special meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Thursday April 30, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:04 P.M. The meeting was held thru Zoom Meetings due to the current State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present at the meeting were:
Board Members JR. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Greg Kroyer, planning board chair and Pauline Healy.
Also present was the Town Clerk.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried,
The Board adopted Resolution #10 of 2020.
SUBJECT: Amending Grievance Day Process and Filing of Tentative Tax Roll Due to COVID19 and Executive Order 202.22
“WHEREAS, the Town Board acknowledges the COVID 19 pandemic and the threat it poses to the health, safety and welfare of the public and the residents of the Town of Jewett, and
WHEREAS, Governor Cuomo has issued Executive Order 202.22 setting forth an alternative process for the hearing of tax grievances and the filing of the tentative tax role.
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that, the Town Board of the Town of Jewett hereby adopts the process and procedure set forth in the attached notice relating the hearing of tax grievances and the filing of the tentative tax roll; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall forthwith cause the attached Notice to be published in the official town newspaper and posted on the official sign board and other prominent locations.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
Discussions were had regarding the current ban on Short Term Rentals. There are still houses that are continuing to be rented out as short term. The board discussed sending letters to STR homeowners reminding them of the ban during this time along with a fee schedule of fines for violating the emergency order.
Pauline Healy homeowner in Jewett, took the floor to ask the board a question. She said she knows that STR rentals are banned at this time but wanted to know if long term rentals were allowed. The board responded that although long term rentals, aka seasonal rentals in not prohibited within the town of Jewett, it is not recommend at this time. The board brought to Ms. Healy’s attention that the town just doesn’t have the infrastructure in place at this time to sustain people coming to stay in our town. There is no hospital in Greene County and there is only one supermarket on the mountain top. Ms. Healy said she would consider what the board has said when she makes her decision. The board thanked her for joining the meeting and asking her question.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:52pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: May 18, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday April 8, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. The meeting was held thru a telephone conference call due to the State of Emergency declared by NYS regarding the corona virus pandemic. Present on the phone were Board Members
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Michael McCrary and Christine and Buck Sperro.
Not present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of February 12, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried
The Board moved to accept the minutes of March 11, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried,
The Board adopted Resolution #4 of 2020. SUBJECT: TOWN CLERKS ANNUAL REPORT
“WHEREAS, the Town Clerk is required to give the Town Board an Annual Report of monies received during the year, and;
WHEREAS, the Town Board must audit the Town Clerk’s cash book;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board has examined the Clerk’s cash book and accepts the annual report of the Town Clerk.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to table the Code Enforcement Officers report as it was not distributed.
Other Business: Christine and Buck Spero took the floor to update the board on the situation they are having with their neighbors who are running a STR. Even though all STR’s in Jewett have been suspended due to the emergency declaration, the rental is still noisy with BB’s being shot and garbage everywhere. Councilman Quackenbush was able to speak with her neighbor and addressed the issues regarding noise, garbage and lights. The owners told Councilman Quackenbush that they would oblige to the rules.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried,
The Board adopted Resolution #8 of 2020. SUBJECT: MOUNTAIN CLOVES EXTENSION BYWAY NOMINATION AND CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN ADOPTION FOR JEWETT.
“WHEREAS, the 41-mile Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway in the town of Hunter and the villages of Hunter and Tannersville was approved and signed into law by Governor Cuomo in 2013;
WHEREAS, the Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan recommends cultivating regional interest by extending the byway and working with neighboring municipalities;
WHEREAS, the Jewett Town Board adopted a resolution in 2016 expressing interest in extending the MCSB through the town to promote regional byway tourism, and the board subsequently appointed two residents to work in cooperation with the town of Lexington to develop this corridor management plan;
WHEREAS, the NYS Department of Transportation has encouraged collaborations among scenic byways and supports extending the MCSB, as it would connect to the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway and enhance both designated byways and include Deep Notch, an extraordinary scenic mountain pass on State Route 42;
WHEREAS, the management entities of both the Mountain Cloves and Catskill Mountains Scenic Byways have formed a Joint Byway Group and have engaged the towns of Jewett and Lexington; and
WHEREAS, the extended byway route proposed to include State Routes 23A and 42 and County Route 23C is highly expressive of scenic, natural, recreational, cultural and historical byway themes as detailed in the Corridor Management Plan for the byway’s extension;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Jewett supports the designation of the Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway in the towns of Jewett and Lexington as defined in the Corridor Management Plan for Scenic Byway Extension and adopts said plan which includes programs for stewardship and enhancement of the scenic byway and guidance to manage future activities along its corridor;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the town of Jewett confirms that they will not issue building permits or any other permits or other permission to construct new off-premise outdoor advertising signs along the designated Byway route; that off-premise tourism oriented directional signage on state highways will be in compliance with the NYS Department of Transportation’s Tourist Oriented Directional Signs (TODS) program, and that off-premise directional signage on any County and local roads along the designated Byway route will be consistent with the state TODS program;
and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the town of Jewett will work in partnership with the towns of Lexington and Hunter, and the villages of Hunter and Tannersville, and local and regional stakeholders to support future Byway program development”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Supervisor Pellitteri, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried,
The Board adopted Resolution #9 of 2020. SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF FUNDS
“WHEREAS, from time to time transfers must be made to keep line items in balance,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the following transfer will be made:
Increase A3620.4 Safety Inspection CE from $4,000.00 to $10,000.00
Decrease A911 Unreserved Unappropriated Fund Balance by $6,000.00”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to appoint Michal McCrary as a representative to the Schoharie Watershed Advisory Committee.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $23,721.95 on abstract #4, claim numbers 58-73.
The Highway Fund was $15,195.29 on abstract #4, claim numbers 47-61.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for March 2020.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to go into executive session at 7:51pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation” and “Discussions relating to proposed, pending or current litigation”.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to come out of executive session at 8:50pm. No action was taken.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:50pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: April 10, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday March 11, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:05 P.M. Present were Board Members
J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Christine and Buck Sperro, and
Tal Rappleyea, Esquire.
Also present was Robert Mallory, Highway Superintendent and the Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board moved to table the minutes of February 12, 2020.
Highway Superintendents Report: Minimal deicing these past few weeks. One of the trucks had lost a front wheel, but it was under warranty and is currently getting fixed.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #7 of 2020. SUBJECT: Application for Local Flood Analysis.
“WHEREAS, Following Tropical Storms Irene and Lee in 2011, a framework was developed for funding flood hazard mitigation in the NYC West of Hudson watersheds and,
WHEREAS, it has been recognized that flooding produces a variety of hazards and impacts not only to public safety, but also to water quality and,
WHEREAS, under this new initiative, Stream Management Programs in the NYC water supply watersheds and the Catskill Watershed Corporation are supporting the analysis of flood conditions and the identification of hazard mitigation projects. The process consists of two steps: 1) an engineering analysis of flood conditions and identification of potential flood mitigation projects articulated in a plan and 2) project design and implementation. The engineering analysis and plan are termed “Local Flood Analysis.” The LFA program rules define the process for municipalities to apply for funding to complete a Local Flood Analysis (LFA).
The program rules also define the process for municipalities to seek funding from the Stream Management Program to implement projects that involve streams, floodplains and adjacent infrastructure to reduce flood hazards,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Town of Jewett makes application for a local flood analysis to be done.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
It was also decided to form a local flood analysis committee (LFAC). With the members consisting of Robert Mallory and Greg Kroyer.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to table the town clerks report.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report.
On a motion by Councilwoman Romito, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to set wedding venue fees paid to the town of Jewett at $100 per event.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried, the board moved to set the STR fine schedule at $500 for failure to register your short term rental by the end of the current calendar year 12/31, then a $1000 per month if fail to register in the next calendar year by 3/1.
Other Business: Christine and Buck Spero took the floor to update the board on the situation they are having with their neighbors who are running a STR. The loud and noisy weekends have continued on with no regards to the neighbors. Recently they were approached by an ENCON officer who found the neighbors garbage dragged onto the other side of the road by animals because the garbage was never picked up. They noticed that the owners of the home have increased the maximum amount of guests in the house to 14 in their advertisement.
The home’s Certificate of Occupancy was issued for only 6 people. Because of this, the DEP have been called to look into the septic system to make sure that nothing is going into the water. Mrs. Spero explained that there are cameras pointed at their house along with flood lights that come on all night long and that she doesn’t feel comfortable on her own property. Greg Kroyer, planning board chair, explained to the Spero’s that the town is working on this and assured them that we taking the appropriate and necessary steps to deal with this situation. Mr. and Mrs. Spero thanked the board for their time and help. The town in turn thanked them for coming in and expressing themselves.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $28,609.35 on abstract #3, claim numbers 39-57. The Highway Fund was $26,793.74 on abstract #3, claim numbers 30-46.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for February 2020.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to go into executive session at 8:02pm to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation” and “Discussions relating to proposed, pending or current litigation”.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to come out of executive session at 9:20pm.
Action taken in executive session:
Councilwoman Muth made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, the board moved to appoint Michael McCrary as a member to the planning board for a 5 yr. term.
AYE: Pellitteri, Muth and Carl. NAY: Quackenbush and Romito.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:28pm.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: April 10, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday
February 12, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:06 P.M.
Present were Board Members J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair, Michelle Yost, Gerry Loucks,
M.B. McCrary, Peter Manning, Leonard Seastone, Mike Ryan Mountain Eagle reporter and
Buck and Christine Sperro.
Also present was Highway Superintendent Robert Mallory and The Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
Peter Manning, project coordinator for the Scenic Byway took the floor and gave a brief overview of the process along with explaining the town of Jewett’s next steps regarding their application.
Leonard Seastone took the floor and spoke about his concerns regarding the scenic byway project and expressed that we don’t need any more people coming to Jewett. He explained that people who are living here have come here for the purpose of peace and tranquility. By marketing the mountain and encouraging more people to come, the original purpose of this place is lost. He asked to board to consider his thoughts before moving forward with the scenic byway.
Michelle Yost of Greene County Soil and Water took the floor to invite the town to participate in a program called Local Flood Analysis (LFA) which is free to apply for and opens up eligibility to receive certain grants. Following Tropical Storms Irene and Lee in 2011, a framework was developed for funding flood hazard mitigation in the NYC West of Hudson watersheds. It has been recognized that flooding produces a variety of hazards and impacts not only to public safety, but also to water quality. Under this new initiative, Stream Management Programs in the NYC water supply watersheds and the Catskill Watershed Corporation are supporting the analysis of flood conditions and the identification of hazard mitigation projects. The process consists of two steps: 1) an engineering analysis of flood conditions and identification of potential flood mitigation projects articulated in a plan and 2) project design and implementation. The engineering analysis and plan are termed “Local Flood Analysis.” The LFA Program Rules define the process for municipalities to apply for funding to complete a Local Flood Analysis (LFA). The program rules also define the process for municipalities to seek funding from the Stream Management Program to implement projects that involve streams, floodplains and adjacent infrastructure to reduce flood hazards.
The board will think about this and make a decision at the March general meeting.
Christine and Buck Spero took the floor to seek the town boards help with an issue they are having regarding a short term rental property next door to them.
Mr. Spero explained, “We have lived here for 33 years and about 3 or 4 months ago the house next door began operating as a short term rental. The house has been rented every weekend for the last few months. A few of the renters have been very nice and respectful but other people who have come have been a horror show consisting of late night drinking parties, screaming and very loud late evening hot tub usage with speakers out on the deck. We are 75 feet away. They are disturbing the peace at all hours of the day; not only the night and I will call the police.”
Mrs. Spero said, “Letting air-b-n-b’s in is not the way to go. If we are experiencing what other people are it can’t be the direction the town wants to go in. I hear the word marketing and I get scared. STR’s are a business. What is the difference if a hotel opened up next door? There are new people here every weekend and it might as well just be a hotel. During the week when no one is there, they leave their flood lights on all night which disturbs us. If you take it case by case, this house should not be allowed to be an Air b-n-b. Yes, they pay taxes but that’s not the primary reason to hold onto people that are disturbing the peace to other people. We’ve been paying taxes for 33 years, our children have gone to the local school WAJ and we are part of the permanent residence. Why should we feel like we are doing something wrong and have to work on getting this right? It doesn’t seem right to us that it’s our obligation to somehow make this all work out. I read in the paper about your new short term rental law and that it said we left a lot of latitude in which we can work. They must be laughing at the $100 per year and the fines are laughable too this is a tiny bit of money for people who make $500 a night and some homes are getting $1400 a night and when we talk about threatening them with a $100, that’s too little.”
Supervisor Pellitteri, said that they have not set the fine schedule for the violations to the STR law as of yet but that they will be working on structuring them tonight.
Mrs. Spero goes on to say that “one weekend, the renters took the four wheeler out and went around the pond 28 times up till 12 midnight and beyond and we didn’t know what to do.
They are up on the hill and the sound travels right to our house, our bedrooms are all on the side of where they are. We are scared of the weekends now and this is just the winter when all the windows are closed. We are scared of what will be coming in the summer time. And we live a lot outside in the summer, I’m a gardener. So we wanted to head this off at the path and at the very least come in and let the town know that it’s happening down there.”
The board thanked the Spero’s for coming in and letting them know about the issues they are experiencing living next to a short term rental. The board will look into this and get back to the Spero’s.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried The Board moved to accept the minutes of January 8, 2020.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried The Board moved to table the town clerk’s report and resolution #4 until the March general meeting.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to re-appoint Carol Miles as a member to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a 5 year term.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to re-appoint Patricia Merwin as a member to the Board of Assessment Review for a 5 year term.
The planning board appointment was tabled until the March general meeting.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to re-appoint Greg Kroyer as the chair of the Planning Board for a 1 year term.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried the board moved to re-appoint Kate Williams as the chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals for a
1 year term.
Discussions were had regarding the fine schedule for violations to the Short Term Rental Law. The supervisor asked the board to think about what they would like to see and at the next monthly meeting they would put a schedule together.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried the board moved to accept the new contract from NYMIR with the added increase of $10,000 in coverage.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $14,058.48 on abstract #2, claim numbers 15-38. The Highway Fund was 35,067.47 on abstract #2, claim numbers 8-29.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Muth and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for January 2020.
Councilwoman Romito made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to adjourn the meeting at 8:39PM.
______________________Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: February 19, 2020
The re-organizational meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday
January 8, 2020. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:05 P.M. Present were Board Members J.R. Quackenbush, Brian Carl, Carol Muth and Marianne Romito.
Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair and Gerry Louks.
Also present was Highway Superintendent Robert Mallory, Tal Rappleyea Esquire and
The Town Clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #3 of 2020. SUBJECT: Town Justice Report
“WHEREAS, the Town Justice is required to give the Town Board an Annual Report of monies received during the year, and;
WHEREAS, the Town Board must audit the Town Justice books;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board has examined the Justice books and accepts the Annual Report of the Town Justice.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board moved to accept the minutes of December 11, 2019. Councilwomen Muth and Romito abstained.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried The Board moved to accept the minutes of December 31, 2019. Councilwomen Muth and Romito abstained.
Highway Superintendents Report: The highway department has been out 5 mornings a week sanding and salting the roads due to snow, ice and sleet. They have used a lot of materials up but no more than our surrounding towns such as Windham and Hunter, as well as the county. One of our snow plow trucks has been brought down to Ben Funk’s for repair but is covered under warranty.
On a motion by Councilman Carl, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried The Board moved to table the town clerk’s report and resolution #4 until the February general meeting.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report. Councilman Carl will follow up with the CEO to obtain a list of homes that have installed solar energy to give to the East Jewett and Jewett Fire Departments.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board accepted the dog control officers report for 2019.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #1 of 2020. SUBJECT: Town Organization Appointments “THE FOLLOWING APPOINTMENTS SHALL BE MADE
Depository for Town Funds Bank of Greene County, NBT Bank
Official Newspaper The Daily Mail, Mountain Eagle
Deputy Supervisor Carol Muth
Town Historian TBD @ Later Date
Association of Towns Delegate James Pellitteri
Alternate Delegate JR Quackenbush
Insurance Broker, Property & Casualty Mang Agency
Insurance Broker, Health Insurance Keith Valentine
Deputy Highway Superintendent Cynthia Mallory
Attorney for the Town Tal Rappleyea
Deputy Tax Collector/ Deputy
Records Retention Officer TBD @ Later Date
Dog Control Officer Bruce Feml
Records Management Officer Maya Carl
Health Officer Robert Schneider
Custodian Robert Mallory
Registrar of Vital Records Maya Carl
Permission is given to the Supervisor to pay electric, health insurance, telephone and discounted bills when they come due. A running balance of $100.00 for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector from A1410.4 will be maintained. Permission is given to the Supervisor to enter into an Inter-Municipal Highway Agreement with Towns and Greene County. The Deputy Registrar of Vital Statistics, Cindy Mallory will be paid $50.00 per year from A4020.4. The Town Board authorizes expenditure of funds for job-related schooling.
Board meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 P.M. in the Municipal Building. Audit by all board members will precede the regular meeting at 6:45 P.M.
Mileage reimbursement is $.45 per mile for all Town business not occurring at the Municipal Building.
Committee and liaison appointments, if any, will be made at the February meeting”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #2 of 2020. SUBJECT: Highway Personnel “This resolution establishes wages, benefits, purchase agreements, county and/ or state contracts and paid holidays for the highway department.
BE IT RESOLVED:
WAGES be paid as follows: 1/1/2020
Mechanic/Truck driver/foreman $24.78 per hour
Highway equipment/truck driver $21.38 per hour
Truck Driver #1 $19.32 per hour
Truck Driver #2 ` $17.80 per hour
Overtime paid at 1 ½ hourly rate over 40 hours per week. Overtime paid on a holiday at 2 times the hourly rate.
BENEFIT HOURS
6 Days Sick Leave
5 Days Personal Leave
5 Vacation days from 0 up to 2 years service
10 Vacation days over 2 years up to 5 years of service
15 Vacation days over 5 years up to 10 years of service
20 Vacation days over 10 years of service and up
Carry over – up to 165 days sick leave based on an 8-hour workday
Schedule of vacation to be picked based on seniority
PURCHASE AGREEMENT:
The Superintendent of Highways shall be authorized to spend up to $1,500 per purchase without prior approval from the Town Board and have a running balance of $50 for miscellaneous expenses from DA5130.4.
COUNTY AND/OR STATE CONTRACTS:
The Superintendent of Highways shall be authorized to purchase under County and/or State Contract without competitive bidding.
PAID HOLIDAYS:
New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Election Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.
BENEFITS:
Highway Department crew uniforms provided on an as-needed basis.
BENEFITS:
Upon presentation of other insurance, medical Insurance buy-out will be paid quarterly at 50% of the individual premium as billed to the Town of Jewett in January.
BENEFITS:
Current Highway Department crew will receive a longevity payment equal to $100 per year for each year of service as per contract. Payment will be made on a semi-annual basis”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #5 of 2020. SUBJECT: Official Undertaking of Municipal Officers
Subject: Official Undertaking of Municipal Officers.
“WHEREAS, James Pellitteri, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Supervisor of the Town of Jewett, and
WHERAS, Carol Muth, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Councilwoman of the Town of Jewett, appointed Deputy Supervisor and
WHEREAS, Maya Carl, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Town Clerk of the Town of Jewett, and
WHEREAS, Maya Carl, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Tax Collector of the Town of Jewett, and
WHEREAS, Stephen Canfield, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Town Justice of the Town of Jewett, and
WHEREAS, Robert Mallory, of the Town of Jewett, County of Greene, New York, has been elected to the Office of Superintendent of Highways of the Town of Jewett, and
NOW, THEREFORE, we as respective officers above, do hereby undertake with the Town of Jewett that we will faithfully perform and discharge the duties of our office, and will promptly account for and pay over all moneys or property received as Town Officer, in accordance with the law; and
This undertaking of the Town Supervisor is further conditioned upon that he will well and truly keep, pay over and account for all moneys and property, including any special district funds, belonging to the Town and coming into his hands as such Supervisor; and
This undertaking of the Town Clerk is further conditioned that she will well and truly keep, pay over and account for all moneys and property coming into her hands as such Town Clerk; and
This undertaking of the Town Tax Collector is further conditioned that she will well and truly keep, pay over and account for all moneys and property coming into her hands as such Tax Collector; and
This undertaking of the Town Justice is further conditioned that he will well and truly keep, pay over and account for all moneys and property coming into his hands as such Town Justice; and
The town does and shall maintain insurance coverage, presently with Selective Insurance, in the sum of $1,000,000.00 for the Supervisor, Town Clerk and Tax Collector to indemnify against losses through the failure of the officers , clerks and employees covered there under faithfully to perform their duties or to account properly for all monies or property received by virtue of their positions or employment, and through fraudulent of dishonest acts committed by the officers, clerks and employees covered there under”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #6 of 2020. SUBJECT: Setting Income Levels for Real Property Taxes
“WHEREAS, the Town of Jewett follows Greene counties sliding scale regarding income levels for Senior Citizens and for Disabled and Low Income Citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of Jewett Adopts the current “sliding scale” provisions of NY Real Property Tax Law s467 (1) (b) (1), consistent with the levels adopted by the Greene County Legislature.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, Quackenbush, Carl, Muth and Romito..
Discussions were had regarding the new Short Term Rental (STR) law. Applications have been mailed out to STR owners and a procedure has been put in place to handle the registrations.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $10,317.82 on abstract #1, claim numbers 1-14.
The Highway Fund was $3,907.62 on abstract #1, claim numbers 1-7.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for December 2019.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilwoman Romito and carried to adjourn the meeting at 8:56PM.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
The end of the year meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on
Tuesday December 31, 2019. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 10:05 AM. Present were Board Members Mike McCrary, Allyson Constable, J.R. Quackenbush and Brian Carl. Public present was Gregory Kroyer, Planning Board Chair. Also present was the Town Clerk.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #21 of 2019. SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF FUNDS IN THE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT.
“WHEREAS all funds must be in balance at the end of the fiscal year, in order that the Appropriation Accounts be balanced the following transfers should be made.
Highway Fund
| From: | DA3501 | General repairs CE |
$(31,765.99) |
| DA5031 | Interfund Income |
$(8,500.00) | |
| DA5110.1 | Machinery CE |
$(6,545.60) | |
| DA5110.4 | General Repairs CE |
$(20,044.23) | |
| DA5130.1 | Machinery PS |
$(306.05) | |
| DA5140.1 | Misc PS |
$(15,892.00) | |
| DA9010.8 | State Retirement |
$(8,330.04) | |
| DA9030.8 | Social Security |
$(381.23) | |
| DA9055.8 | Disability Ins |
$(890.00) | |
| DA9060.8 | Medical Ins | $(806.60) | |
| DA9950.9 | Transfer to Capital Projects | $(7,763.76) | |
| DA2401 | Interest and Earnings | $(562.07) | |
| $(101,787.57) | |||
| To: | DA5130.2 | General Rpairs | $22,247.83 |
| DA5130.4 | Machinery CE | $1,054.50 | |
| DA5112.2 | Permanent Improvements EQ | $31,730.99 | |
| DA5142.1 | Snow Removal PS | $20,702.05 | |
| DA5142.4 | Snow Removal CE | $26,052.20 | |
| $101,787.57 |
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Budget be amended accordingly.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, McCrary, Constable, Quackenbush and Carl.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #22 of 2019. SUBJECT: TRANSFER OF FUNDS WITHIN THE GENERAL FUND.
“WHEREAS all funds must be in balance at the end of the fiscal year, in order that the Appropriation Accounts be balanced the following transfers should be made.
General Fund
| Line Item | Title | Amount | |
| From: | A1010.4 | Town Board CE | $(1,700.00) |
| A1320.4 | Indep. Auditing Acctng | $(3,000.00) | |
| A1355.11 | Assessor | $(4,300.00) | |
| A1355.2 | Assessor EQ | $(3,000.00) | |
| A1670.4 | Central Print | $(2,200.00) | |
| A1910.4 | Unallocated Ins | $(3,736.36) | |
| A5031 | Interfund Revenue | $(28,300.00) | |
| $(46,236.36) | |||
| To: | A1355.4 | Assessors CE | $361.22 |
| A1430.1 | Personnel PS | $334.92 | |
| A1430.4 | Personnel CE | $120.00 | |
| A1355.12 | Clerk | $4,300.00 | |
| A1620.4 | Building CE | $27,214.21 | |
| A4540.4 | Ambulance CE | $3,102.38 | |
| A8020.1 | Planning PS | $600.00 | |
| A8160.4 | Refuse/Garbage | $3,063.59 | |
| A9010.8 | State Retirement | $5,118.04 | |
| A9040.8 | Worker Comp | $2,022.00 | |
| $46,236.36 |
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Budget be amended accordingly.”
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, McCrary, Constable, Quackenbush and Carl.
Councilman McCrary made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $56,322.14.00 on abstract #12A, claim numbers 260-272.
The Highway Fund was $50,087.24 on abstract #12A, claim numbers 190-196.
Councilman McCrary made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to wish all a very Happy New Year!
Town Clerk Maya Carl thanked Councilman McCrary and Councilwoman Constable for serving the town these past years. They have both contributed much and they will be missed.
All agreed.
Councilwoman Constable made a motion, 2nd by Councilman McCrary and carried to adjourn the meeting at 10:13 AM.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
Added: January 24, 2020
The general meeting of the Jewett Town Board was held on Wednesday
December 11, 2019. Supervisor Pellitteri called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.
Present were Board Members:
Brian Carl, Allyson Constable, Mike McCrary and J.R. Quackenbush.
Public present:
Gregory Kroyer (Planning Board Chair) Gene Coe, Shawn Jaeger and Paul Trautman.
Also present was the Superintendent of Highways and the town clerk.
The Supervisor’s financial report was given to the Board prior to the meeting and the bank statements were reviewed by Board Members after the signing of the bills.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried The Board moved to go into Executive Session at 7:00 P.M. to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation.”
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the Board came out of Executive Session at 7:46 P.M. No action was taken.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried The Board moved to accept the minutes of November 13, 2019.
On a motion by Councilman Quackenbush, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the board moved to accept the Code Enforcement Officers report.
Superintendent of Highways Report: Winter came early and we have gone thru a lot of material.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried, Local Law #2 of 2019 was adopted. This law is entitled, Zoning Amendments Regarding Short Term Rentals
“BE IT ENACTED BY THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF JEWETT AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. ZONING AND TOWN CODE AMENDMENTS
The Town Board of the Town of Jewett has determined that it is necessary and appropriate to make certain amendments to the Town Zoning Law and Town Code in order to keep such laws updated and relevant to the changing community. The Board hereby adopts this local law pursuant to the requirements of New York State Town Law §264. The amendments set forth below are referenced in accordance with numbering system currently in effect in the Town Code Book adopted as Local Law #6 of 2010 on July 14, 2010. The amendments set forth herein shall take effect on January 1, 2020.
SECTION 2. AMENDMENT TO §165-51 Definitions.
Add:
REGISTERED SHORT TERM RENTAL: Any property or portion thereof, advertised in any fashion including on the internet, for rent for a period less than one month and for which the owner or representative has obtained a Registration Certificate from the Town Code Enforcement Officer.
SECTION 3. AMENDMENT TO §165-9 HR Hamlet Residential, §165-10 RR Rural Residential, §165-11 RC Rural Conservation and §165-12 C Conservation
Registered Short Term Rental shall be added to the list of Permitted Uses in each zone.
SECTION 4. AMENDMENT TO ADD A NEW §165-21.3 REGISTERED SHORT TERM RENTAL
Owners or representative(s) of the owners of all parcels of land or portions thereof to be utilized as a Short Term Rental shall file an application with the Town Clerk and obtain a Registration Certificate, annually on or before January 31 of each year or within 2 (two) months of a Notice of Non-Compliance having been issued, in a form to be promulgated by the Town Board from time to time by resolution and shall pay a fee as set by resolution of the Town Board. Registration must be completed by December 31, 2020 for all existing Short Term Rentals or at least ten (10) days prior to any new such use not existing as of January 1, 2020.
The Registration Certificate and an information sheet shall be conspicuously posted within the rental unit. The form of the information sheet shall be promulgated by the Town Board from time to time by resolution.
SECTION 5. Severability
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, word, section or part of this law shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional, illegal or invalid, such judgment shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, word, section or part thereof, directly involved in the controversy in which said judgment shall have been rendered.
SECTION 6. Effective Date.
This local law shall take effect on January 1, 2020 and following the filing of this law with Secretary of State”.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, McCrary, Quackenbush and Carl. NAY Constable.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilwoman Constable and carried, The Board adopted Resolution #20 of 2019.
SUBJECT: Transfer of Funds from the Good Neighbor Account to cover the balance owed for generators
“WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Jewett has determined that it is in the best interest of the residents of the Town that generators should be purchased and installed in the Town Hall and Town Highway Garage; and
WHEREAS, The Town of Jewett is a party and signatory to a certain Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) dated January 21, 1997 wherein the said DEP committed to and did provide funding for a program entitled “Good Neighbor Payments” to the Town; and
WHEREAS, among other things, the purpose of such Payments were to be for the use of paying for “…the capital costs of designing, constructing and installing public works or public improvements, or purchasing public equipment…that will benefit the public at large.”; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Jewett does hereby determine that the purchase and installation of generators in the Town Hall and Town Highway Garage is within the abovementioned purpose.
NOW THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Jewett does hereby authorize the expenditure of monies from the said Good Neighbor Funds for the balance of payment for generators in the Town Hall and Town Highway Garage; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Town Board shall send a copy of this Resolution to DEP at least 30 days prior to such expenditure, which shall serve as the Statement of Intent to spend the Good Neighbor Funds as required in Article V. Section 147 (b) (ii) of the MOA.
ROLL CALL VOTE: AYE Pellitteri, McCrary, Constable, Quackenbush and Carl.
The yearend meeting has been scheduled for Monday December 30, 2019 at 6pm at the Town of Jewett Municipal Building.
Grant Committee Update: Councilman Carl took the floor and said, “I have started the application process for drone technology for firefighter apparatus. I’m hoping if we receive this grant, that it would attract young people to want to volunteer. I am continuing to work on the tourism center and have been in touch with the Laberge group for their continued assistance”.
Councilman McCrary made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to authorize the Supervisor to negotiate and sign the contract with Host Compliance for $6,000.
Whereas, the board has passed the STR amendments to the zoning laws and
Whereas we wish to begin implementing registration ASAP beginning in January and
Whereas we would like to contract with Host Compliance,
Be it moved that the board authorizes the Supervisor to negotiate and sign the contract with Host Compliance for $6,000.
Councilman Carl made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried to approve the bills. General Fund was $16,848.61 on abstract #12, claim numbers 227-259.
The Highway Fund was $12,875.23 on abstract #12, claim numbers 178-188.
Councilman Quackenbush made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried to accept the Supervisors financial report for November 2019.
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Carl and carried the Board went into Executive Session at 8:03 P.M. to discuss personnel matters. “The medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation.”
On a motion by Councilman McCrary, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the Board came out of Executive Session at 8:39 P.M.
Councilman McCrary made a motion, 2nd by Councilman Quackenbush and carried the board moved to appoint Gene Coe as a member to the zoning board of appeals.
The Supervisor and board members thanked Councilman McCrary and Councilwoman Constable for serving the town in the capacity of a councilmember. They will be missed.
Councilwoman Constable made a motion, 2nd by Councilman McCrary and carried to adjourn the meeting at 8:46PM.
___________________
Maya Carl, Town Clerk
